Children under 14 to be banned from social media in Victoria

The Victorian government is set to implement a new regulation banning children under 14 from using social media.

Premier Jacinta Allan said it was time for change, saying the move would target social media companies and hold them to account.

It follows a similar proposal announced by the South Australian government yesterday, who are considering a social media ban for under-14s.

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Under a new model, children aged 14 and 15 would need parental consent to use social media platforms.

Meanwhile, those under 14 would be banned from using platforms altogether to enhance safety.

The premier said the model would include proposed enforcement options, though the specifics of how these would be implemented were not clear.

Educational sites and programs designed for diverse learners will be exempt from these restrictions.

"It's absolutely time for change. There are benefits to social media, but for children, the harms outweigh the good," Allan said.

"The voices of parents, schools and kids must be heard as we shape these reforms – we'll make sure of that."

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Speaking on a Facebook video yesterday, Allan said age limits would help parents at home and protect children from harm.

"Social media is just not a place for kids before they are ready. It harms their development and their focus and it's not just parents telling me that it's kids and young people too," she said.

"Parents are trying to manage content on devices at home, but it's hard.

"It's like a social media tsunami they feel they can't stop. So it's time to give parents the power to push back against tech giants. That's why we're going to put age limits on social media."

Although Victoria is ready to implement state legislation, Allan said she would prioritise a nationally consistent approach.